The brief was prepared as part of the activities of the working group “Safety methods and procedures relating to handling of large quantities of hydrogen”, which operates under the IPCEI Hy2Use Knowledge Sharing Consortium. The consortium brings together hydrogen IPCEI projects to share knowledge across borders, support the development of a European hydrogen market and enable wider replication of project results.
The publication focuses on the communication challenges linked to large-scale electrolysis projects. These projects often involve several actors, including plant operators, electricity grid and gas network operators, local authorities, emergency services and neighbouring industrial facilities. Clear communication between these actors is essential from plant design through to the end of operation.
The brief highlights that technical risk assessments are essential, but may not be sufficient on their own. Electrolysis facilities often combine hydrogen production, hydrogen storage, high-capacity electricity connections and integration with other industrial processes. This can create uncertainty among permitting authorities and local stakeholders, particularly in regions with limited previous experience of such installations.
Safety communication can therefore function both as a barrier and as a driver. If communication is reactive, fragmented or overly technical, it can reinforce uncertainty and slow down decision-making. When communication is structured, transparent and accessible, it can support trust, public acceptance and more predictable permitting processes.
The brief identifies several areas for action, including:
- improving early communication between project developers, grid operators and permitting authorities
- developing clear materials explaining electrolysis technology, hydrogen handling and related safety measures
- engaging local authorities, emergency services and communities early in project planning
- exchanging permitting experiences and communication practices between authorities and Notified Bodies
The publication concludes that electrolysis safety is rarely limited by technical standards alone. Clear communication between project partners, authorities and local communities is often decisive for timely permitting and public acceptance.
Read the full brief below!
CLIC Innovation facilitates the working groups under IPCEI Hy2Use Knowledge Sharing Consortium.